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You’re a busy mom and an expert at keeping everybody happy and on schedule — the kids, your husband, your coworkers, even the dog. Your post-pregnancy body, however, has missed its deadline. The flabby and saggy parts have failed to stay on task and haven’t bounced back to pre-baby days.
You’re not alone. For many women, no amount of exercise, healthy eating, or camouflage will improve their post-baby figure. Today’s moms want to look younger and more attractive, and they’re not afraid to ask for help. Fortunately, medical professionals and cosmetic specialists offer an array of innovative and tried-and-true solutions to help moms look better and feel a renewed sense of self.
Breast augmentation, breast lifts, and tummy tucks are classic Mommy Makeover procedures that correct sagging or deflated breasts and lumpy or bulging bellies. With the addition of liposuction, you can say goodbye to love handles, back fat, and bra rolls; the result is a more sculpted physique.
Hormonal changes due to pregnancy can wreak havoc on your hair, skin, teeth, and gums. If your lovely locks have thinned, low-level laser therapy can improve the quality and quantity of your strands. Peels, facials, injectables, and laser treatments can turn around a lackluster complexion and leave you looking more youthful and rested. Take care of your dental needs, too — you can boost your smile and your confidence with professional teeth whitening.
Finally, don’t forget your feet. Quick, less-invasive treatments will have you back in your favorite shoes and walking on cloud nine in no time.
Cosmetic Dentistry Institute
Q: I seem to have more dental problems since my pregnancy. How can I get a healthy, beautiful smile?
A: At the Cosmetic Dentistry Institute, it’s not unusual to hear a new mom say, “I never got cavities until I had a baby.” Babies don’t cause cavities, but events during pregnancy can take a toll on your teeth and gums.
“Stomach acid from daily bouts of morning sickness and reflux can dissolve areas of tooth enamel,” Dr. Craig Goldin says. “In addition, frequent snacking and sucking on hard candies to relieve nausea can feed the bacteria that cause decay, and hormonal changes can affect your gum tissues and lead to gingivitis.”
Take the first steps to a well-deserved mommy “smile” makeover by having a professional teeth-cleaning, bringing your gums back to a healthy state, and repairing any areas of decay.
“When you still have those baby pounds to loose, lift your spirits with professional teeth-whitening for a big, bright, movie star smile,” Dr. Marcy Goldin adds. “Whether your teeth are too long, too short, crooked, chipped, overcrowded, or just plain unattractive, we can create a smile that looks phenomenal and gives you a boost of new confidence.”
“We offer many options to our patients,” Dr. Craig Goldin says. “Invisalign invisible braces, porcelain veneers, all-ceramic crowns, dental implants, and sedation dentistry allow our patients to have healthy, stunning smiles.”
Chosen as the top cosmetic practice in the nation, the Cosmetic Dentistry Institute offers nothing less than excellence in dentistry.
“Everything we do is driven by our pledge to go above and beyond for our patients,” Dr. Craig Goldin says. “We want our patients to be thrilled with their new smiles.”
Cosmetic Dentistry Institute
Mune Gowda , M.D., F.A.C.S.
Q: What can be done to fix my sagging belly skin and deflated breasts?
A: By combining liposuction with a tummy tuck, a breast-lift, and breast augmentation, board-certified aesthetic plastic surgeon Dr. Mune Gowda helps young, active moms achieve the pre-baby figure they long for.
“With abdominoplasty, the stomach will look nice and flat, but that’s just one part of the ‘landscape.’ I use liposuction to sculpt the body circumferentially, removing fat from the waist and the back to create a more attractive shape with curves and contours,” Dr. Gowda explains. “Patients are really happy with the way their clothing fits, especially the shape in the back. They call it a ‘J.Lo’ back.”
Most women who come in for a Mommy Makeover will need a breast-lift and an implant. Sometimes Dr. Gowda will do a fat graft instead of the implant, to enhance the cleavage and upper breast.
“We use liposuction to eliminate the bra rolls,” Dr. Gowda says. “Sculpting the areas around the breasts make the breasts look even better.”
Mune Gowda, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Birmingham Center for Cosmetic Dentistry
Q: I put my dental health on the backburner. Is it possible to get a beautiful smile?
A: It’s not unusual for women to place their family’s needs above their own. Whether you’ve put off having recommended dental treatments, or you’d like whiter and straighter teeth, today’s dentistry makes it quicker and easier than ever to have the smile you’ve been waiting for.
“Because we have so many treatment options, patients are often surprised to learn what we can do to help them, often in a short amount of time,” Dr. Mitchell Milan says. “We sit down and discuss the patient’s individual needs and goals, and offer the best solutions.”
Six Month Smiles and Invisalign are popular orthodontic treatments for straightening crooked teeth quickly and transparently.
“Invisalign is a series of custom-made, virtually invisible aligners. Six Month Smiles uses clear brackets and tooth-colored wires that are barely visible at conversational distances,” Dr. Milan explains. “In most cases, Six Month Smiles is quicker and more affordable than Invisalign or traditional orthodontics.”
Dr. Milan places highly esthetic, custom-made, porcelain veneers to create a beautiful and natural smile. For patients who are candidates for veneers, this two-week treatment and classic smile makeover is like “instant orthodontics.” Dr. Milan says there’s no reason for moms to feel guilty or embarrassed for having accumulated dental problems over time.
“We’re on their side. It’s about looking to the future, not dwelling on what happened in the past,” he says. “It’s about starting a new day in the patient’s dental life. We’re moving forward, giving the patient a healthy mouth and a great-looking smile.”
The Birmingham Center for Cosmetic Dentistry
West Maple Plastic Surgery
Q: What is a vertical breast-lift?
A: A relatively new way of performing breast-lifts, the vertical lift with implants results in a more youthful and attractive breast for women who have had children, says board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Sherbert.
“Often, these patients have lost volume in their breasts and lost the position of their breasts. Some people have so much extra skin, they need some form of skin reduction.
The vertical breast-lift is a nice way of placing an implant and then relocating that breast tissue and skin back where it’s supposed to be. The result is a beautiful, very natural-appearing breast with the appropriate volume and in the right position.”
West Maple Plastic Surgery
Dr. Myra N. Danish, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Q: What can be done to rejuvenate my dull complexion?
A: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can take a toll on the skin. For new moms who are breastfeeding, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Myra Danish takes a conservative approach and recommends a series of glycolic peels and laser photo facials.
“The peel gently exfoliates and the laser photo facial works on the dermis to help with large pores, discoloration, and collagen regeneration, giving the skin a nice texture and glow,” Dr. Danish explains.
“The Excel V laser is very effective for treating hyperpigmentation, or dark spots, as well as broken capillaries and redness on the face — or anywhere else on the body. All of these laser treatments can be combined in one convenient session.”
Moms who are not nursing, or those who have finished nursing, are treating themselves to an injectable Lunchtime Lift. Dr. Danish analyzes the patient’s facial structure, skin type, and degree of aging, and recommends the best products for their needs. Busy moms can look years younger and more energetic in less than an hour, and with very little downtime.
“I generally inject fillers into the cheeks, the laugh lines, the chin area, and under the eyes, if needed. Some patients may need Botox for forehead wrinkles, frown lines, or crow’s feet,” Dr. Danish says. “I perform all of the injections myself, so patients can get the best results and look rejuvenated and natural — not like they’ve had work done.”
Myra Danish, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Renew Hair & Skin Center
Q: What can I do to improve the look of my hair?
A: “It’s important to use quality hair products that are paraben-free and sulfate-free,” advises Robin Welford, co-owner of Renew Hair & Skin Center, where clients can try products from the styling bar to learn what works best for their needs.
“Avoid excessive heat from blow dryers, flat irons, and other styling tools that can cause damage,” says Renew co-owner Suzie Meklir. “If your hair is thinning, try a shorter, more natural hairstyle and maintain a healthy cut.”
Always use a clarifying shampoo every third or fourth washing to remove buildups of debris from styling products. Adding a deep-conditioning mask at least once every 10 days to two weeks is another good practice. When coloring your hair, use tints that don’t have ammonia in them to cut down on damage.
Renew’s patented program includes noninvasive laser therapy to increase the quality and quantity of hair strands and bring damaged hair back to life. If you want your hair to look its best, call for a complimentary consultation today.
Renew Hair and Skin Center
Elite Podiatry
Q: Could my favorite shoes be the cause of my foot pain?
A: “Most women buy shoes that are too small,” says Dr. Alexsey Kheynson, D.P.M., who notes that foot problems like hammer toes, bunions, heel pain, and arch pain can be caused by wearing ill-fitting, trendy footwear. “Even sandals can cause a callus formation that leads to pain, or a neuroma — a pins-and-needles, numbing-type pain in the ball of your foot,” Dr. Kheynson explains. “Just as pain isn’t normal, sensations like numbness and tingling are symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored. When women have a consultation on the proper sizing of their feet, we measure the feet and can mold custom-made orthotics. We can recommend certain footwear and even discuss options for making a favorite pair of shoes fit properly.”
For more serious shoe-related foot problems, doctors may recommend surgery — which today is less invasive, faster to recover from, and more effective than ever.
Elite Podiatry
Mona Hardas, M.D., PC
Q: Now that I’ve had a baby, when can I start having sex again?
A: Give yourself time — approximately six months — to heal after childbirth. Your body is swollen and stretched, you’ve gained weight, and you’re dealing with the effects of hormonal changes. If you had a tear or an episiotomy, the stitches may feel uncomfortable. Take time to rest and recover, do your Kegel exercises, and ease into a workout to get your muscle tone back.
Once the swelling has gone down, some women are bothered — either physically or emotionally — by changes in the labia or the vagina. With cosmetic vaginal surgery we can correct large or asymmetric labia, and rejuvenate or tighten the vagina to enhance sensitivity. Our in-office procedures give excellent results.
Mona Hardas MD, PC
Birmingham Plastic Surgery
Q: Can breast reduction be performed with less scarring?
A: Most surgeons perform a traditional breast reduction that resembles an inverted “T.” The incision goes around the areola, vertically down to the breast fold, and horizontally in the fold. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ahmet Karaca is one of few surgeons in the area to perform breast reduction using a vertical “lollipop” incision that stops at the breast fold, thereby eliminating the horizontal scar that most women dislike.
“The long, horizontal incision is more likely to develop keloids and hypertrophic scarring, which is thick scar tissue,” Dr. Karaca explains. “With the ‘lollipop’ approach, the cosmetic result is much better and there is less occurrence of eventual drooping of the breast.”
Birmingham Plastic Surgery
Somerset Plastic Surgery
Somerset Research
Q: Are you unhappy with your breast implants?
A: While the vast majority of women experience no complications with breast augmentation, a small percentage of patients have problems that lead to discomfort or cosmetic issues. These problems can be related to scar tissue that forms around the outside of the implant, improper positioning of the implant, or skin that no longer supports the weight of the implant, says board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Meininger, M.D.
“When problems do arise, generally there are surgical solutions — whether that’s releasing the scar tissue, replacing the implants, or moving the implants into a new position,” he explains. “There are several new products that show real promise for helping to correct implants that are in the wrong position or skin that has excessively stretched after augmentation, due to hormonal fluctuations.”
If you’re interested in revision surgery for breast augmentation, you may be qualified for an investigational device study. Call Dr. Meininger’s office to schedule a consultation.
Somerset Plastic Surgery
Comfort Dental Spa
Q: I’m a busy mom. How can I have a bright, beautiful, younger-looking smile?
A: Taking time for yourself is the first step to improving the health and beauty of your smile. Dr. Aziza Askari and her dedicated dental team are ready to provide the personalized, comprehensive and gentle care you deserve.
“I see a positive change as moms realize that they need to be healthy and take good care of themselves so they can take care of their baby,” says Dr. Askari. “Many new moms on maternity leave come in for preventative exams and cleanings or for restorative and cosmetic treatments.”
Using conservative, state-of-the-art procedures and technology, the Comfort Dental team can restore and enhance the natural beauty of your smile, often in less time than you would imagine. In one short office visit you can have a smile makeover with professional teeth whitening or beautiful all-ceramic CEREC crowns in a day and you don’t have to come back for a separate visit.
“One of my patients had her Six Month Smiles® invisible brackets removed just one month after she had her first child,” Dr. Askari relates. “She could laugh and smile with confidence, especially for photographs.” Her family and friends loved it and she was happy to be able to carry herself with confidence to greet her baby.
Comfort Dental Spa provides a full range of quality services that moms and families need.
“I see more and more family visits,” says Dr. Askari. “The kids are having cleanings and mom and dad are having procedures done. As a busy mom of three children myself, if everything can be accomplished in one visit, everybody is happy. It’s a great convenience.” There is time left to do other things that the family can enjoy.
Offering excellence in all facets of dental care, as well as, soothing spa services, Dr. Askari can give even the busiest mom a reason to smile.
Comfort Dental Spa
Arnold Gross, D.P.M., PC, Eric Foreman, D.P.M.
Q: I struggle with toenail fungus and wonder if there is a safe, effective, and affordable treatment that can cure my toenail fungus?
A: Our clinical studies reveal over 88% of treated patients show significant improvement when using our PinPointe FootLaser treatment. It is FDA approved and in most cases, fungal nails are completely cured. In our clinical studies there have been no known adverse reactions, injuries, disabilities, or side effects. This procedure is considered to be aesthetic; therefore health insurance does not provide coverage. Credit cards, cash, and money orders are accepted. You may also use your Health Savings Account (HSA), Medical IRA, Flexible Spending Account, or CareCredit.
Arnold Gross, DPM , PC, Eric Foreman, DPM Podiatry
FACE Skincare ~ Medical ~ Wellness
Q: What is the newest, most effective treatment for looking 10 years younger without surgery?
A: FACE is the only skin care facility in Michigan that offers the Synchronize Lift, a noninvasive treatment approach for complete overall restoration of facial features. Unlike a liquid face-lift, the Synchronize Lift addresses all aspects in the Triangle of Aging — including volume, wrinkles, sagging, elasticity, collagen, and sun damage. Using a combination of injectables, lasers, and energy-based technologies, the Synchronize Lift restores true facial harmony. Your skin will look natural and at least a decade younger, all without surgery.
FACE uses a variety of the best injectables. One of the latest breakthrough fillers is Juvéderm Voluma XC, the first and only FDA-approved filler to instantly add volume and structure to the cheek area. Voluma lifts and contours, improving hollows underneath the eyes and flattening in the midface. This incredible filler will give you a more youthful profile for up to two years!
Put your best face forward. Call FACE, the experts in noninvasive skin rejuvenation.
FACE Skincare~Medical~Wellness
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